What is the Currency in Jersey?

What is the Currency in Jersey?

If you’re planning a trip to Jersey—a beautiful island in the Channel Islands known for its beaches, countryside and mix of British and French influences—it’s important to understand how the local currency works. This guide is written for UK visitors and explains what currency Jersey uses, how it relates to the pound, and what to expect when paying for goods and services.

What currency does Jersey use?

Jersey uses the Jersey Pound (JEP), which is pegged 1:1 with the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Both Jersey pounds and British pounds are accepted throughout the island and are used interchangeably.

The Jersey pound is a local issue of sterling—meaning it holds the same value as the pound used in mainland UK, but with its own designs and notes issued by the States of Jersey.

Can you use British pounds in Jersey?

Yes. British pounds (notes and coins) are accepted everywhere in Jersey. You don’t need to exchange your money before travelling from the UK.

However, when withdrawing cash or receiving change, you may receive Jersey-issued notes, which are valid on the island but may not be accepted in mainland UK shops or banks.

How is the Jersey pound structured?

The Jersey pound follows the same format as British currency. Notes and coins mirror the UK system:

• Banknotes: £1, £5, £10, £20, and £50

• Coins: 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2

Jersey notes feature unique local imagery, such as historic figures, wildlife, and landmarks, but function exactly like sterling on the island.

Should you bring cash or use cards in Jersey?

Jersey is card-friendly, and most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept Visa and Mastercard. Contactless and mobile payments (like Apple Pay and Google Pay) are also widely accepted.

That said, it’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash, particularly if you plan to visit rural areas, local markets or heritage sites where card facilities may be limited.

Using ATMs and banking services

ATMs are available across the island and dispense a mix of Jersey and Bank of England notes. If you're using a UK bank card, transactions are typically processed in sterling, so you won't be hit with currency conversion charges.

However, if you’re using a non-UK card, check for any foreign transaction fees, even though the island uses pounds.

Can you use Jersey pounds in the UK?

Technically, Jersey-issued pounds are not legal tender in the UK, although many retailers in southern England may accept them informally. However, banks and shops are not obliged to take them, and you may have difficulty spending Jersey notes once you return home.

If you have leftover Jersey cash, consider spending it before you leave or exchanging it back into Bank of England notes at a Jersey bank or post office.

Tips for managing money in Jersey

• Bring your UK debit or credit card—it will work as normal

• Don’t worry about exchanging pounds before travel

• Be aware that change may be given in Jersey notes

• Spend or exchange Jersey-issued money before leaving the island

Common misconceptions

A frequent assumption is that Jersey uses euros or has its own completely separate currency system. In reality, it operates on sterling, with the Jersey pound being a local version of the British pound. Another misunderstanding is that Jersey pounds can be used freely in the UK—they generally cannot.

In summary

Jersey uses the Jersey Pound (JEP), which is on par with the British Pound Sterling. UK currency is accepted across the island, and there’s no need to exchange money if travelling from the UK. While Jersey notes are valid on the island, they may not be accepted back home, so it's best to spend or convert them before leaving.